Port Tack Charter

Latest Test of Theatre Style Racing Challenges the Crews Union

49er Class members practiced their boat handling while testing (yet to be branded) Theater Style Racing ahead of the 2012 Sail for Gold Regatta.  7 crews jumped into the Stadium and not all survived, though good fun was had by all.  The format somewhat mirrors the format by which the 49er class will determine the 2012 European Championship in Lake Garda.

There is the first race in a beautiful 15 knot Portland Harbour breeze.  Apologies to the crews union for 5.5 minute races instead of the target 7-8 minute.  Reports have it that for some unknown reason there was little post race discussion from the front of the boat.

Here is Race 1 of 3 in the Sprint Series.

We caught up with the Irish after Race 1 of Combat Sailing.  As always, plenty of chat from these two…

Race two had 7 boats competing and three of them using the Port Tack Option off the start line.  There was plenty on at the windward mark.  Additionally, as you see the Portugese (Francisco) tack out from the lane rope on the first beat, we can see an incident where the Irish avoid a potential collision.

We caught up with the Brits after the second Street Race… ever confident, some might say cocky about their shot for glory in the final race.

And then to the grand final… 3 teams remained all tied on 5 points after 2 races… One race for all the glory.  One team would be destined to win the title – King of the Colosseum.

It was a fun day for training.  Congrats to Alain and Dylan of team GBR for their Gold medal performance.  Jorge Lima proved that he’s on form heading into his Olympic trials with a Silver medal and the ever plucky Irish won the bronze.

Many thank to Dave Mackay for getting the Battle down the Channel organized, along with help from Tom Peel.  Harvey Hillary on commentary provided just the right balance of trash talking and excellent camera work, we’ll have him back for sure.